Dear Parents and Carers,

Public speaking is both a time of excitement and sometimes one of nervousness and  anxiety. For many of our Year 3 students the public speaking competition this week  was their first experience standing in front of an audience, voice trembling, palms a little sweaty, hearts racing. And yet—they did it. And yes, for some they had a slightly smaller audience than others. But, what an achievement!

The Year 4-6 students had experienced public speaking in Year 3 so were a little more ready, but still experienced the bredth of emotion!

In every classroom we witnessed the preparation: the drafting, the redrafting, the quiet rehearsals, the growing confidence. Children who just weeks ago whispered their speeches were able to deliver them with conviction and clarity. It’s a powerful reminder of what can happen when courage meets support.

Yes, nerves were present—but so were perseverance, pride, and a great sense of accomplishment. Whether it was a humorous take on what would happen if animals could talk, a creative response to a ‘much needed invention’ or thrilling us with what they would do if they had a time machine, each student brought something meaningful to the presentations.

At St Pat’s we look for opportunities to celebrate the growth of our students in their learning. Opportunities like the public speaking competition build not only communication skills but also resilience, empathy, and a deepening sense of community. Watching our students step forward with bravery and speak their truths was inspiring.

To our Year 3-6 students: I am proud of you. Not just for the speeches you wrote or the confidence you displayed—but for the way you lifted each other up. For every round of applause you gave your peers. For celebrating every brave friend and classmate who stood and presented their speech. Well done!

Congratulations to the St Pat's finalists and to the 2 students in each year who have made it to the regional public speaking event. 

Blessings

Jo